Field Mouse-Ear Chickweed, Field chickweed

Cerastium arvense

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Basic Information

Family: Caryophyllaceae

Genus: cerastium

Plant ID (slug): cerastium-arvense

Numeric ID: 22576

USDA Hardiness: Coming soon

Ratings

Physical Characteristics

Cerastium arvense is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in) by 1 m (3ft 3in). It is in flower from April to August, and the seeds ripen from May to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Flies and small bees. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

Most of Europe, including Britain, south and east to N. Africa and temperate Asia..

Habitats

Meadow; Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

The plant is astringent[257]. A decoction of the plant has been used in the treatment of injuries and miscarriage[257]. A decoction is said to stop uterine bleeding and prevents the child from passing through the uterus[257].